St. John XXIII College Seminary

May 17, 2026 | SUNDAY REFLECTION|
The Ascension of the Lord
Sem. Kane Lester C. Dedoro
San Agustin Parish, Valencia City, Bukidnon
Discipleship Year I

SUNDAY Reflection

In our Gospel today, I learned to love the unloved, to doubt less, and to trust in God’s grace. In the first part of the Gospel, it says:“The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw Him, they worshiped, but they doubted.”

There were moments in my life when I experienced doubts…doubts that led me to stop loving someone, and doubts that blinded me from seeing God’s grace.One day, while I was sitting in the chapel, I began recalling the past, the times when I was blinded by what the world was feeding me. There was a person whom I deeply admired. I saw him as a role model. But when I started discovering what was behind the mask, I no longer saw him the same way. I began to dislike him because of the pain, discouragement, and disappointment he caused me.

But then I realized something: a person who makes mistakes, causes pain, and disappoints us does not need to be unloved. Rather, that person needs love even more, because God’s grace is also with them. We need to learn to see God’s grace even in people we do not like. I started to forgive and love that person because I believe that no one deserves to be unloved or unforgiven.

Just as Jesus said:“And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” God will always be with me, even when the world tries to ruin me. For nothing is impossible in His grace, and no person is too unworthy to be loved.

So, my dear brothers and sisters, perhaps the invitation of our Gospel today is this: “We need to learn to love the people we hate and see God’s grace within them.” And so, let us ask ourselves: “Can I still love the person who has inflicted pain on me?” and “Can I still see God’s grace in them?”

May 10, 2026 | SUNDAY REFLECTION|
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Sem. Ivan Elder C. Bas
San Miguel Arkanghel Parish, Cabadiangan, Kadingilan, Bukidnon
Discipleship Year I

The Gospel from John 14:15–21 becomes a personal reminder that my journey is rooted in love for Christ expressed through obedience. Jesus’ words drove me to a deep reflection: “Kon gihigugma ninyo ako, tumana ninyo ang akong mga sugo.” Invite me to reflect honestly on how I live my vocation each day. In seminary life, where prayer, study, community living, and discipline form daily life, I realize that love for God is not only shown in words or intentions, but in how faithfully I carry out even the simplest responsibilities. Every task, whether in silence, study, or service, becomes an opportunity to respond to Christ’s invitation of love.

In my experience, seminary formation is both meaningful and challenging. There are moments when I feel inspired and deeply committed, especially during prayer and spiritual activities. I sometimes question my abilities and my readiness for the vocation I am pursuing. Yet in these moments, this Gospel reassures me that I am not alone. Jesus promises the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who guides, strengthens, and enlightens me.

I also find deep comfort in Jesus’ words, “I will not leave you, orphans.” This promise reminds me that Christ is always present, even when I feel distant or unsure. His presence is experienced most deeply in prayer, silence, and moments of reflection, where I learn to surrender my fears and struggles to Him. This Gospel also helps me see seminary formation not just as preparation for future ministry, but as a daily encounter with God who is shaping my heart. It challenges me to grow in humility, patience, and fidelity, allowing God to transform my weaknesses into strength.

As I reflect today, I am challenged to remain faithful not only when I feel strong and motivated, but also when I feel tired, uncertain, or discouraged. I am challenged to love Christ consistently and concretely, trusting that every sacrifice, every struggle, and every silent effort in seminary is part of God’s loving formation of my life and vocation.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Looking at this photo of Mama Mary holding Jesus reminds us so much of home. Long before any of us entered the seminary, our moms were the ones teaching us how to pray and showing us what real love looks like. We wouldn't be here without you. To all our moms—the ones cheering us on from home and the ones watching over us from heaven—we love you!

Pastoral Day 2026| Part 2

Malipayong gipahigayon sa seminaryo ang kalihokan nga nagdala sa temang "Kauban sa Pag-umol, Kauban sa Pagpadayon." Nahimo kining higayon sa pagpalawom sa bokasyon sa matag usa.

Pahinumdom kanato gikan sa homiliya: "Bisan ug lisog ang patuman sa atong ebanghilyo, mahimo gihapon kini nga mas-mapaduol kita sa atong Ginoo. Mapasalamot sa pagdawat, pakig-uban mapasalamat sa pagdawat."-Rev. Azertiso L. Paraiso

Kini nga panaw sa pag-alagad nagpadayon tungod sa grasya sa Ginoo ug sa panaghiusa sa tibuok komunidad.

Pastoral Day 2026| Part 1

Malipayong gipahigayon sa seminaryo ang kalihokan nga nagdala sa temang "Kauban sa Pag-umol, Kauban sa Pagpadayon." Nahimo kining higayon sa pagpalawom sa bokasyon sa matag usa.

Pahinumdom kanato gikan sa homiliya: "Bisan ug lisog ang patuman sa atong ebanghilyo, mahimo gihapon kini nga mas-mapaduol kita sa atong Ginoo. Mapasalamot sa pagdawat, pakig-uban mapasalamat sa pagdawat."-Rev. Azertiso L. Paraiso

Kini nga panaw sa pag-alagad nagpadayon tungod sa grasya sa Ginoo ug sa panaghiusa sa tibuok komunidad.

Happy birthday Sem. Edgar R. Lumandas!!
Another year has passed in your journey of formation — another year of prayers whispered in silence, lessons learned with humility, and sacrifices offered with love. Today, may you remember that your life inspires more people than you know. Happy Birthday!!!

Happy birthday Sem. Mharc Jim C. Liwawas!!
In a world that often chooses comfort, you chose the path of surrender and service. Your vocation is a reminder that true joy is found in answering God’s call. May this birthday bring you peace, strength, and countless blessings for the journey ahead.

Rector's Cup| Workers' Day 2026
Part 2

United as one by the theme "Pag-ambit sa Usa ka Kopa sa Pagsaulog ug Pag-alad," we come together as one family to share in a cup of gratitude and celebration for our hardworking seminary staff this Labor Day, looking to the example of St. Joseph the Worker to remind us that every humble task and bit of daily hard work is a beautiful way to serve God and support our community.

Rector's Cup| Workers' Day 2026
Part 1

United as one by the theme "Pag-ambit sa Usa ka Kopa sa Pagsaulog ug Pag-alad," we come together as one family to share in a cup of gratitude and celebration for our hardworking seminary staff this Labor Day, looking to the example of St. Joseph the Worker to remind us that every humble task and bit of daily hard work is a beautiful way to serve God and support our community.

Celebrating a year of growth, prayer, and brotherhood. Happy Birthday, Sem. Jersan P. Saldaña!! Your dedication to the Gospel is an inspiration to us all. Our prayers are with you today and always.